The term “sociopath” is sometimes used colloquially to describe what mental health professionals would diagnose as antisocial personality disorder (ASPD). People with ASPD often display symptoms such as a disregard for others, a lack of empathy, and dishonest behavior.
It is important to note that a professional diagnosis of ASPD should be made by a qualified mental health professional and should not be used casually or lightly.
Additionally, mental health conditions should be approached with sensitivity and understanding, as they can have a significant impact on individuals and those around them.
What Is a ‘Sociopath’?
The term “sociopath” is often used informally to refer to individuals diagnosed with antisocial personality disorder (ASPD). The same goes for “psychopath.”
In the latest edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR), ASPD is described as a pattern of disregarding and violating the rights of others, along with an inability to conform to societal norms.
Individuals with ASPD may initially come across as charming and charismatic, but they typically struggle to understand others’ emotions. They may:
- Show little guilt for any harm they cause
- Act impulsively or aggressively
- Break rules or laws
- Use manipulation, deceit, and controlling tactics
It’s important to note that “sociopathy” and “psychopathy” are not official diagnoses. Moreover, these terms carry significant stigma, especially for individuals living with personality disorders.
Therefore, it’s advisable to avoid describing someone displaying violent or manipulative behavior as a “sociopath” or “psychopath.” Instead, it’s more productive to focus on specific behaviors and actions.
The term “sociopathy” was first widely used during the 1930s. Unlike “psychopathy,” which could be confused with “psychosis,” the term “sociopathy” clearly denoted traits and behaviors linked to socio-environmental factors.
Initially, many researchers used the terms interchangeably, but the inclusion of ASPD in the third edition of the DSM in 1980 provided a more standardized diagnostic framework.
The Differences Between a Sociopath And a Psychopath
In a clinical context, there is no significant difference between sociopathy and psychopathy, as mental health professionals do not use these terms to diagnose any specific condition.
However, some psychologists and researchers have made distinctions between the two concepts as different ways to understand Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD).
Psychopathy is often described as involving more premeditated or planned behavior, although it is not necessarily violent. On the other hand, sociopathy is sometimes considered less severe than psychopathy because it does not necessarily involve calculated manipulation or violence.
It is important to note that violent or deceitful behavior, whether planned or impulsive, can cause significant harm and distress.
According to psychologist Robert Hare, who developed the Psychopathy Checklist (PCL-R), sociopathy involves a conscience and a sense of right and wrong, even though individuals with this trait may rationalize actions they know are wrong.
Psychopathy, on the other hand, is characterized by a lack of empathy and a complete absence of morality.
Some research from 2013 suggests that the differences between psychopathy and sociopathy may be related to variations in brain structure and function, such as differences in gray matter volume and the development of the amygdala.
It is proposed that individuals with sociopathy may still possess some sense of morality, albeit different from social norms, while those with psychopathy lack any sense of right and wrong.
Common Signs of Sociopathy
There’s no standardized list of signs of sociopathy, but the symptoms of Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD) typically include a persistent pattern of disregard for others. Some examples of this behavior may include:
- Disregard for personal safety, or the safety of others.
- Aggressive or aggravated behavior, which may involve frequent fights or physical conflicts with others.
- Dishonesty and deceit, including using false identities and manipulating others for personal gain.
- Difficulty controlling impulses and planning for the future, often acting without considering the consequences.
- Ignoring social norms, laws, and rules, such as stealing, stalking, harassing, or destroying property.
- Lack of guilt or remorse, often justifying actions that negatively impact others.
- Difficulty managing responsibilities, such as showing up for work, handling tasks, or paying rent and bills.
People with ASPD usually show little interest in the lives of others and may come across as arrogant or superior, often using humor, intelligence, and charisma to manipulate others. While they may initially appear charming, their self-serving motives become evident over time.
Those with ASPD often struggle to maintain meaningful relationships, due to low empathy and emotional intelligence, a tendency to learn little from their mistakes, a disregard for others’ safety, and a propensity for intimidation to maintain control.
Sociopathy Causes
While sociopathy and psychopathy involve various factors, including brain chemistry and inherited genes, many experts view sociopathy as more of an environmental construct than a genetic one.
Parenting styles, upbringing, and other environmental factors tend to be the most influential in the development of sociopathy.
Children who do not receive nurturing attention from caregivers often learn to take care of themselves, as they perceive that no one else will. Additionally, children who experience abuse, violence, or manipulation from a young age may model such behaviors as they navigate their own conflicts.
It’s also possible to “acquire” sociopathy. Head trauma or damage to the frontal lobes of the brain, which can result from head injuries or progressive conditions like dementia, may lead to some antisocial behaviors.
How Is Sociopathy Diagnosed?
Sociopathy, as distinct from psychopathy or any subtypes of Antisocial Personality Disorder (ASPD), is not recognized in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5-TR).
Instead, mental health professionals diagnose ASPD based on established DSM criteria. This diagnosis may apply to individuals whose behavior aligns with either sociopathy or psychopathy.
The DSM criteria for ASPD requires at least three of the seven signs mentioned above, along with a few additional criteria:
- The symptoms must occur across multiple life areas.
- The antisocial traits and behaviors should not be attributable to schizophrenia or bipolar disorder.
- They must have shown some signs of conduct disorder before the age of 15, differentiating ASPD from adult-onset lawbreaking behavior.
- The individual must be at least 18 years old.
To arrive at a diagnosis, a therapist or psychologist may:
- Conduct interviews to understand the individual’s feelings, thoughts, behavior, and personal relationships.
- Review the individual’s medical history to rule out other conditions.
- Seek permission to speak with family members and partners to gather additional information about the individual’s behaviors.
It’s important to recognize that personality disorders like ASPD involve traits that are beyond the individual’s control and tend to remain fixed over time, causing distress.
However, several other conditions share similar symptoms with ASPD:
- Bipolar I Disorder may involve symptoms similar to those of ASPD, such as impulsivity, aggression, irritability, and increased thoughts of suicide. However, ASPD is not diagnosed during a manic episode.
- Intermittent Explosive Disorder (IED) is characterized by extreme and repeated verbal or physical outbursts driven by impulse or anger, often directed toward people, property, or animals. It typically begins in adolescence or early adulthood but does not necessarily involve low empathy or lack of remorse.
- Schizophrenia may involve trouble recognizing facial emotions and can sometimes lead to aggressive or antisocial behavior. However, it also involves psychosis, which is not characteristic of ASPD.
- Conduct Disorder is a childhood condition that often precedes ASPD. Adults with ASPD must have displayed symptoms of Conduct Disorder in childhood.
Sociopathy Treatment
For individuals with sociopathy, recognizing and seeking help for their condition can be challenging, as they may not perceive any issues with their behavior. In some cases, legal or personal pressures might lead them to consider therapy.
However, support and treatment can still be beneficial. While little research exists on treatment effectiveness for ASPD due to a lack of voluntary participation in therapy by many affected individuals, therapy can help address various challenges, including depression, stress management, and substance use.
Some potential therapeutic approaches for ASPD include:
- Democratic Therapeutic Communities: These therapy groups encourage participants to work together on community issues, fostering community-minded and prosocial thinking.
- Mentalization-Based Therapy (MBT): MBT focuses on understanding one’s own and others’ mental and emotional states, which may lead to improved social interactions.
- Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This approach helps individuals understand their responses to people and situations, potentially leading to more productive behaviors.
- Contingency Management: This approach uses rewards to encourage treatment progress, which may help individuals limit substance use.
Regarding medications, no FDA-approved medications specifically treat ASPD, but certain drugs can help manage symptoms:
- Antipsychotics: These drugs, such as risperidone, can help with aggression.
- Anticonvulsants: These drugs, such as carbamazepine, can reduce impulsivity.
- SSRIs and Mood Stabilizers: These medications, like fluoxetine and lithium, may be used to manage aggression.
A small study suggested that the antipsychotic clozapine could be effective in treating men with ASPD, improving symptoms such as anger, impulsivity, and aggression.
Remember, the efficacy of any treatment or intervention for ASPD depends largely on the individual’s willingness to engage in therapy and treatment.
How to Deal With Someone Who Shows Signs of Sociopathy
If you find yourself in a relationship with someone who exhibits signs of sociopathy, it can be an extremely challenging and even dangerous situation.
Sociopathy is characterized by a lack of empathy, manipulation, and deceitful behavior, and these traits can be harmful to those around the individual.
Here are some expanded strategies for coping with someone who may have sociopathic tendencies:
- Educate Yourself: Understanding the nature of sociopathy and its symptoms can help you recognize and navigate the behavior of the individual more effectively. Learn more about mental health and you will have a broader perspective on what sociopathy is and how to cope with someone suffering from it.
- Stay Safe: If you ever feel physically threatened or in danger, remove yourself from the situation and seek help immediately.
- Document Behaviors: Keep a record of specific incidents or behaviors that concern you. This can be helpful if you need to involve authorities or legal professionals.
- Set Boundaries: Clearly communicate your limits and what you will and will not tolerate in the relationship. Stick to these boundaries consistently.
- Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to friends, family, or a therapist who can provide you with emotional support and guidance.
- Self-Care: Take care of yourself emotionally, physically, and mentally. Practice self-compassion and prioritize your well-being.
- Evaluate the Relationship: Reflect on whether the relationship is healthy for you. Sometimes, the best decision for your well-being is to end the relationship.
- Consider Professional Intervention: If the individual is open to it, suggest they seek therapy or counseling to address their behaviors.
Remember, coping with someone who shows signs of sociopathy can be extremely challenging. It’s crucial to prioritize your safety and well-being above all else.